Startled Venezuelans express relief but also fear after Maduro arrest

People on the streets of Venezuela experienced fear, confusion and relief after the surprise US attack on the country overnight; However, with the news that President Nicolás Maduro was captured by US forces, many also dared to express hope.

A 56-year-old woman from the east of the capital Caracas described to dpa how she experienced the night: “It started after midnight.

“We heard explosions in the distance and saw lights in the sky: At first, I thought they were firecrackers or fireworks.

“We also heard planes and helicopters, then it suddenly went completely quiet.

“Only when we heard that Maduro had been captured were there shouts of joy.”

“We are happy, but also very afraid, because we don’t know what will happen now, especially since other heads of the government are still there,” the woman continued.

“Now [9 am/1300 GMT] the streets here are deserted, like on a holiday.

“Everything is closed, only the pharmacy on the corner is open, but only as an emergency service through a small window.”

Reports: Metro not working – many stock up on food

According to reports from other residents of the capital, the metro is out of service, and there also seems to be no bus service.

The Colombian broadcaster Caracol reported from an open supermarket in Caracas, where many were stocking up on non-perishable food, canned goods and water. Only groups of 25 people were allowed in at a time.

Residents from the Venezuelan Andean city of Mérida also reported almost deserted streets. There were only queues in front of some supermarkets – but armed government supporters on motorcycles could also be seen.

A young Venezuelan woman at the border crossing between Colombia and Venezuela near Cúcuta told the broadcaster RCN: “We hope that everything will get better now and that all those who fled Venezuela can return.

“I will now try to reach my family in Caracas as quickly as possible.”

Colombian media speculated that Venezuela might close its borders with the neighbouring country.

A 58-year-old man currently on the island of Margarita, popular with Venezuelan tourists, said: “I’m opening the bottle of whisky I had set aside for this day.”